The Hellenic Returned and Services League sub-branch in Melbourne added its voice to the events commemorating Greek Independence Day with a commemoration at the Australian Hellenic Memorial.
The gathering saw numerous officials attend as they laid a wreath at the Unknown Soldier Monument, with a service held at the Memorial by Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne (assisted by Father Panteleimon) in honour of the fallen from the Greek War of Independence.
The event was emceed by Hellenic RSL secretary Major Terry Kanellos, who welcomed the various notable guests, including the Ambassador of Greece to Australia, Stavros Venizelos, and his wife, as well as the Consul General of Greece in Melbourne, Dimitria Georgantzoglou.
Venizelos delivered a speech at the event, which was then followed by the laying of wreaths, the oath, the raising of the flags and the national anthems of Greece and Australia.
The ceremony also featured many students from various schools, adding an element of youth participation to the gathering.
Following the service, the Hellenic RSL hosted a luncheon at their location in South Melbourne, which was attended by the Ambassador, the Consul General, the Defense Attaché, Colonel Kyriakos Kyriakakos and other dignitaries.
Flag raising ceremony at Federation Square
The Victorian Council for Greek National Day added one final touch to their commemorative events on Tuesday as they held flag raising ceremony at Federation Square.
The Greek flag was proudly raised to mark the specific date of the anniversary (25 March), accompanied by the national anthems of both Greece and Australia, with a small delegation present for the ceremony.
